Solis Mammography, a department of Medical City Arlington Services

Also known as tomosynthesis, 3D mammography provides radiologists with multiple clear images of the breast. The 3D mammogram is akin to being able to view the individual pages of a book, rather than simply viewing the book’s contents by looking through the front and back cover.

This is considered the most advanced technology in screening and diagnostic mammography. Research shows 3D mammograms can increase early cancer detection rates and decreases callbacks1. Learn more or view infographic

The traditional digital mammogram takes two-dimensional pictures of the breast and is still one of the most advanced tools available for detecting breast abnormalities. A screening mammogram is used to detect breast tumors in women who have no symptoms of breast cancer. The goal of a screening mammogram is to detect tumors that are too small or too deep to be discovered any other way. You do not need a physician’s order to schedule a screening mammogram. * Please note: you will need to provide the name of your physician to whom we can send your reports.

If a Solis breast imaging specialist notices something on a patient’s screening mammogram that requires further evaluation, the patient may be called back for a diagnostic mammogram or breast ultrasound. The diagnostic evaluation serves as the next step to clarify any abnormalities detected during a screening mammogram or doctor's exam.

Women detecting abnormalities during a self-exam (lump, discharge, dimpling) would bypass the screening mammogram and be scheduled for a diagnostic mammogram.

Breast ultrasound is used as a mammography supplement to help distinguish the characteristics of a lump or a breast mass. Use of ultrasound allows Solis radiologists to make well-informed decisions on surgical procedures. Ultrasound is performed by the radiologist when it is needed to help make a diagnosis or to clarify mammographic information. An ultrasound breast exam is primarily used as a diagnostic tool – it is not a screening method for breast cancer.

Ultrasound-guided biopsy – The procedure may be recommended if an area of concern is found on a patient’s mammogram or ultrasound exam. Solis breast imaging specialists use ultrasound to guide them while taking small samples of tissue from the area of interest. The sample is then sent to pathology for evaluation. Ultrasound-guided breast biopsy is a highly accurate procedure used to locate suspicious tissue within the breast. The procedure may reduce the need to surgically remove tissue. After placing an ultrasound probe over the site of the breast lump and using local anesthesia, the radiologist guides a biopsy needle directly into the tissue of interest.

Stereotactic biopsy – A stereotactic biopsy may be recommended if an identified area of concern is better visualized using mammography. Solis breast imaging specialists use this technique to take several small samples of an area in your breast tissue that needs further examination. A stereotactic biopsy is a reliable, minimally invasive method used if areas of concern were detected by a mammogram, ultrasound or MRI.

Also known as bone mineral density testing, this is a simple scan test to determine if Solis patients have or are at risk for osteoporosis – a disease that causes bone to become more fragile over time. The X-ray scan can determine if bones are starting to thin before a bone is broken. Solis patients and their doctors can then determine their best plan of action to slow or reverse the process.